The United Nations’ weather agency has issued a stark warning about the alarming state of the Earth’s climate, revealing that it is more out of balance than ever before in documented history. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reported that the planet is absorbing excessive heat energy, primarily due to greenhouse gas emissions, which could further exacerbate global temperatures as the El Niño phenomenon looms on the horizon.
Record Energy Imbalance
According to the WMO, the unprecedented “energy imbalance” has led to record ocean temperatures and relentless melting of ice caps over recent years. This situation has raised serious concerns among scientists, as the impending El Niño phase is expected to generate even more heat, potentially breaking previous temperature records.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasised the urgency of the situation in a recent address, reiterating the need for nations to transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. “Planet Earth is being pushed beyond its limits. Every key climate indicator is flashing red,” he declared, underscoring the severity of the crisis.
The WMO’s data indicates that the past 11 years have been the hottest on record since 1850, with global average temperatures in 2025 estimated to be approximately 1.43°C higher than those recorded before the widespread use of fossil fuels. While a temporary cooling phase attributed to La Niña slightly mitigated the heat in 2025, the year still ranked among the three warmest in history.
Greenhouse Gas Levels at Alarming Highs
The report highlights the alarming rise in carbon dioxide levels, which are now at their highest in at least two million years, a direct result of human activities like burning fossil fuels. This increase in greenhouse gases is the primary driver of the current energy imbalance. As a consequence, more than 90% of the excess heat is being absorbed by the oceans, leading to dire consequences for marine ecosystems, intensifying storms, and rising sea levels.
The WMO indicated that the heat stored in the upper two kilometres of the ocean reached new highs last year, with warming occurring more than twice as fast over the last two decades compared to the late 20th century. “Human activities are increasingly disrupting the natural equilibrium, and we will live with these consequences for hundreds and thousands of years,” warned Professor Celeste Saulo, the WMO’s Secretary-General.
Extreme Weather and Health Risks
The repercussions of rising temperatures are already being felt globally, with an increase in extreme weather events and the spread of diseases like dengue fever. Regions such as the south-western United States are currently experiencing record-breaking heatwaves, with temperatures soaring above 40°C—10 to 15 degrees higher than average for this time of year.
A rapid analysis conducted by the World Weather Attribution group concluded that the intensity of this heatwave would have been “virtually impossible” without the influence of human-induced climate change. Scientists are closely monitoring the Pacific Ocean as predictions indicate that El Niño could develop in the latter half of 2026. If this occurs, it could lead to significant increases in global temperatures, potentially setting new records as we move into 2027.
Preparing for El Niño’s Impact
The prospect of an El Niño phase combined with existing human-induced warming raises serious concerns about future climate scenarios. Dr John Kennedy of the WMO cautioned that if an El Niño does materialise, it will likely contribute to further increases in global temperatures. “If we transition to El Niño, we will see an increase in global temperature again, and potentially to new records,” he stated.
As the world grapples with the ramifications of climate change, the urgency for action has never been clearer.
Why it Matters
The implications of the WMO’s report are profound, signalling an urgent call to action for governments and individuals alike. The evidence presented showcases not only the escalating crisis facing our planet but also the interconnectedness of climate, health, and security. As extreme weather events become more frequent and intense, the need for a concerted global effort to combat climate change is critical. Transitioning to sustainable energy sources is not just an environmental imperative; it is essential for ensuring the future of humanity and the health of our planet.
